Glasgow Jewish Workers Circle, No. 18 - Revision history

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 :Glasgow Workers’ Circle Support Histadrut Circle House was transformed last Sunday for the first Bazaar and Cake and Candy Sale for over 15 years. Organised by the Workers’ Circle, the bazaar raised a substantial sum in aid of the Histadrut Israeli Appeal. The visitors appeared shortly after 11 a.m. when the doors were opened, and - the stallholders were kept busy until nearly 11/ om., when the last goods had been auctioned off. The official opening ceremony was performed by My lan Mikardo, M.P., who said that this was just one of the functions going on all over the country, as part of an appeal for the Histadrut campaign, not only to raise money, butf to give the Jewish worker outside Israel a chance to demonstrate his solidarity with the workers who have made possible the establishment of the new State. Histadrut was, originglﬂy. to absorb in the first year 100,000 immigrants, but already, in less than a year, 120,000 had been admitted, nearly a quarter of whom were widows, children, or sick, who have to be fed, housed and looked after before they could make any wpositive contribution to the nation's economy. The Government was in urgent need of money, he said, and activities such as bazaars were an important source of funds. G : The well -stocked stalls included cake and candy, groceries and fruit, drapery, clothing, furniture. and furnishings books, and jumble stalls. Poalei Zion organised a fancy goods stall, and there were other attractiong. in the side shows the: photographer and the tearoom. The Bazaar Committee was under the chairmanship of My Ph. Shapiro, and convenership of Mr M. Luckner, and a great deal of ecredit for its success was due tothe Ladies’ Committee who had been formed for the first time to help at the bazaar. It was hoped that they would continue to function as a committee. <ref>Jewish Echo, 24 December 1948.</ref>
 *'''February 1950''' - WORKERS CIRCLE The Annual General Meeting of the Workers’ Circle was held in Circle House on 12th February, with Mr [[F. Babbin]] presiding over a large attendance of members. The chairman asked all to stand in one moment’s silence of respect in memory of their comrade, [[I. Chaplitsky]], who had just passed away. [[Mr Babbin]] also reported on the illness of Com. Ph, [[Brook]] to whom it was unanimously agreed to send a letter wishing him a speedy recovery. The chairman then gave a resume of the past year’s iactivities; the Hon. Secretary, My [[M. Goldberg]], read the Balance Sheet and Mr [[M. V. Strang]] submitted the House Commitee Balance Sheet, and both having been stated to be correct and in order by the Hon. Auditors, Messrs [[M. Lynn]] and [[H. Sless]], they were unanimously adopted. Mr Strang addressed the members on the financial position of Circle House, askiig all for their fullest co-operation with the incoming officedbearers, to whom all details of their future plans would be submitted for attention. The election of office-bearers then took place with the following results : Chairman, F. Babbin; Vice-Chairman, Ph. Shapiro; Hon. Secretary, M. Goldberg; Asst. Secretary, [[B. Stein]]; Hon. Treasurer, Ph. Briook; Auditors, M. Lynn, H. Sless, and M. Goodman; Trustees, J. Taylor, A. Lepovsky, and [[A. Hertzberg]]; Collector, [[B. Stein]]. The following delegates were also appointed— to the Jewish Representative ‘Council: Ph. Shapiro and [[F. Babbin]]; [[World Jewish Congress]]: [[H. Sless]] and [[S. Lee]]; [[Board of Shechita]] : [[I. Kallinif]] [[Glasgow Histadruth]]: [[R. Jesner]] and [[M. Miller]]. <ref>Jewish Echo, 24 February 1950</ref>
 ==Notes==

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 :Glasgow Workers’ Circle Support Histadrut Circle House was transformed last Sunday for the first Bazaar and Cake and Candy Sale for over 15 years. Organised by the Workers’ Circle, the bazaar raised a substantial sum in aid of the Histadrut Israeli Appeal. The visitors appeared shortly after 11 a.m. when the doors were opened, and - the stallholders were kept busy until nearly 11/ om., when the last goods had been auctioned off. The official opening ceremony was performed by My lan Mikardo, M.P., who said that this was just one of the functions going on all over the country, as part of an appeal for the Histadrut campaign, not only to raise money, butf to give the Jewish worker outside Israel a chance to demonstrate his solidarity with the workers who have made possible the establishment of the new State. Histadrut was, originglﬂy. to absorb in the first year 100,000 immigrants, but already, in less than a year, 120,000 had been admitted, nearly a quarter of whom were widows, children, or sick, who have to be fed, housed and looked after before they could make any wpositive contribution to the nation's economy. The Government was in urgent need of money, he said, and activities such as bazaars were an important source of funds. G : The well -stocked stalls included cake and candy, groceries and fruit, drapery, clothing, furniture. and furnishings books, and jumble stalls. Poalei Zion organised a fancy goods stall, and there were other attractiong. in the side shows the: photographer and the tearoom. The Bazaar Committee was under the chairmanship of My Ph. Shapiro, and convenership of Mr M. Luckner, and a great deal of ecredit for its success was due tothe Ladies’ Committee who had been formed for the first time to help at the bazaar. It was hoped that they would continue to function as a committee. <ref>Jewish Echo, 24 December 1948.</ref>
 ===1950===
-:WORKERS CIRCLE The Annual General Meeting of the Workers’ Circle was held in Circle House on 12th February, with Mr [[F. Babbin]] presiding over a large attendance of members. The chairman asked all to stand in one moment’s silence of respect in memory of their comrade, [[I. Chaplitsky]], who had just passed away. [[Mr Babbin]] also reported on the illness of Com. Ph, [[Brook]] to whom it was unanimously agreed to send a letter wishing him a speedy recovery. The chairman then gave a resume of the past year’s iactivities; the Hon. Secretary, My [[M. Goldberg]], read the Balance Sheet and Mr [[M. V. Strang]] submitted the House Commitee Balance Sheet, and both having been stated to be correct and in order by the Hon. Auditors, Messrs [[M. Lynn]] and [[H. Sless]], they were unanimously adopted. Mr Strang addressed the members on the financial position of Circle House, askiig all for their fullest co-operation with the incoming officedbearers, to whom all details of their future plans would be submitted for attention. The election of office-bearers then took place with the following results : Chairman, F. Babbin; Vice-Chairman, Ph. Shapiro; Hon. Secretary, M. Goldberg; Asst. Secretary, [[B. Stein]]; Hon. Treasurer, Ph. Briook; Auditors, M. Lynn, H. Sless, and M. Goodman; Trustees, J. Taylor, A. Lepovsky, and [[A. Hertzberg]]; Collector, [[B. Stein]]. The following delegates were also appointed— to the Jewish Representative ‘Council: Ph. Shapiro and [[F. Babbin]]; [[World Jewish Congress]]: [[H. Sless]] and [[S. Lee]]; [[Board of Shechita]] : [[I. Kallinif]] [[Glasgow Histadruth]]: [[R. Jesner]] and [[M. Miller]]. <ref>Jewish Echo, 24 February 1950</ref>
 ==Notes==

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 ==1940s==
 ===1941===
-*WORKERS’ CIRCLE The Quarterly Meeting of the Glasgow Jewish Workers’ Circle was held recently, Comrade [[M. Miller]], Vice-Chairman, presiding over a good attendance of members. The report for the period under review was presented by the Hon. Treasurer, Comrade [[M. V. Sragowitz]], who indicated that the financial position was satisfactory In the report of the Social Committee, it was intimated that an interesting programme was being arranged for the coming season, but that on account of war conditions, it would not be possible for the educational lectures to take place as in the past. It was further stated that the Club Library continued to be well patronised, interesting new books being added to its shelves regularly. - Members were urged to appeal to their relatives and friends to volunteer to assist in the [[Glasgow Jewish Emergency Communal Feeding Centres]], where the assistance of a considerable number of ladies was still urgently required. It was intimated that Mr. [[I Levy]], Chairman, and Mr. [[M. Goodman]], Hon. Asst. Secretary, had, owing to pressure of work found it necessary to resign from their respective posts These resignations were accep ted with great regret, and cor: dial appreciation conveyed tc Mr. Levy and [[Mr. Goodman]] for the services they had rendered the Circle throughout their association with it. Mr Sclare was appointed Assistant Secretary, pro tem. At a committee meeting helc on Sunday, 31st August, Com M. Miller, in the chair, a report was given by the Treasurer o the Building Committee wh said that the funds iwere in . gratifyingly sound state. It was also reported that th¢ new Comforts Fund for mem hers serving in the Forces chac now heen inaugurated, with 'h purpose of sending parcels t members for the New Year. 4 concert is being arranged ot behalf of the fund, A number of other items wert discussed, following which Mr Levy, one of the Circle delegates to the [[Glasgow Jewish Representative Council|Representative Council]], gave a report on th last meeting of that organisa +ion.<ref>Jewish Echo, 5 September 1941.</ref>
+*WORKERS’ CIRCLE The Quarterly Meeting of the Glasgow Jewish Workers’ Circle was held recently, Comrade [[M. Miller]], Vice-Chairman, presiding over a good attendance of members. The report for the period under review was presented by the Hon. Treasurer, Comrade [[Maurice Vincent Strang|M. V. Sragowitz]], who indicated that the financial position was satisfactory In the report of the Social Committee, it was intimated that an interesting programme was being arranged for the coming season, but that on account of war conditions, it would not be possible for the educational lectures to take place as in the past. It was further stated that the Club Library continued to be well patronised, interesting new books being added to its shelves regularly. - Members were urged to appeal to their relatives and friends to volunteer to assist in the [[Glasgow Jewish Emergency Communal Feeding Centres]], where the assistance of a considerable number of ladies was still urgently required. It was intimated that Mr. [[I Levy]], Chairman, and Mr. [[M. Goodman]], Hon. Asst. Secretary, had, owing to pressure of work found it necessary to resign from their respective posts These resignations were accep ted with great regret, and cor: dial appreciation conveyed tc Mr. Levy and [[Mr. Goodman]] for the services they had rendered the Circle throughout their association with it. Mr Sclare was appointed Assistant Secretary, pro tem. At a committee meeting helc on Sunday, 31st August, Com M. Miller, in the chair, a report was given by the Treasurer o the Building Committee wh said that the funds iwere in . gratifyingly sound state. It was also reported that th¢ new Comforts Fund for mem hers serving in the Forces chac now heen inaugurated, with 'h purpose of sending parcels t members for the New Year. 4 concert is being arranged ot behalf of the fund, A number of other items wert discussed, following which Mr Levy, one of the Circle delegates to the [[Glasgow Jewish Representative Council|Representative Council]], gave a report on th last meeting of that organisa +ion.<ref>Jewish Echo, 5 September 1941.</ref>
 ===1943===

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 :WORKER’S CIRCLE Celebrates 25th Anniversary The Glasgow Jewish Workers’ Circle, Division 8,1 s celebrating its 25th anniversary, and a special function to mark the occasion is being held in Circle House, Gorbals Street, on Sunday evening, May 2nd, when delegates from the London headquarters of the movement will be present. Mr L. Gradman, the recording secretary and librarian, who has taken a leading part in practically every aspect of Circle activity, gave a ‘jewish Echo’ representative a brief history of the branch from the time of its inception. In March of 1912. a dozen Jewish men met at the residence of Mr. I. Mail in Portugal Street and decided on the formation of Division No. 8. At the beginning, the branch had no definite home, but eventually properly equipped premises were obtained at 55 Gorbals Street. In those rooms the Circle cultivated social and recreational activities, and, looking to the educational side, also established a library, The Circle prospered, and with a constantly increasing membership, those responsible for the Division looked around for new and larger premises, and eventually decided on the present Circle House, which was formerly part of the old Gorbals library. Early on in the life of the branch, the Mendel Bailis case aroused the Jewish communities all over the world to protest. As a result of this case, the Circle took a leading part in the ‘establishment of the body that now looks after Jewish affairs in general—the local Jewish Representative Council. During the Great War, the Circle in Glasgow organised the Workers’ War Emergency Fund, by which they rendered assistance to Jewish families not only in this country but abroad, and provided sustenance for the Jewish families whose bread winners left for Russia under the Convention. i Thoughtful of general Jewish problems, the Circle in Glasgow later established a Workers’ League for Jewish Emancipation —a body whose purpose was to safeguard the identity of the Jewish people throughout the world. When the case of Shalom Schwartzbard attracted public attention, the Glasgow Division organised a local defence committee. In more recent times the Circle was responsible for the organising of a German Relief Campaign—one meeting held in the City Halls resulted in the ingathering of close on £lOO. The plight of Polish Jewry also stirred the Circle to activity, and another special committee was established to deal with the matter. In the past few months, the Circle has been responsible for raising quite a substantial sum for Spanish relief. Educational activity has always been in ‘the foremost of the Circle’s programme, and some very well-known speakers have been brought to Glasgow under the Circle’s auspices, including Rudolph Rocker, Morris Myers, Dr. Zalkind, Dr. Crooke, and more recently, Dr. Steinberg, and Vladimir Grossman. In its 25 years of existence the Circle has proved itself' a definite asset to the local Jewish community, and also to the working class cause. <ref>Jewish Echo, 23 April 1937.</ref>
-===1939===
-:JEWISH WORKERS & ERETZ YISRAEL We have before us a report of the Jubilee celebration of the first London Branch of the Workers’ Circle, which was established in this country some thirty years ago. It was an impressive function and a number of interesting speeches were delivered, from which a good idea could be formed of the strength and many achievements of this important organisation. Yet we cannot help being disappointed at the complete lack of general Jewish interest betrayed by the speakers. 1t was not by accident that at this respresentative gathering of Jewish workers not a word was mentioned of their heroic colleagues in Eretz Yisrael who put up such a courageous fight for the Jewish homeland, and that no word of protest was uttered against the attempt to frustrate for ever the most cherished Jewish hope for national revival. It was the logical consequence of the lukewarm attitude of the organised Jewish workers in this country towards general Jewish affairs. It betrayed the regrettable influence of the discredited policy of the Bund and the other semiassimilationist movements which have helped so much to estrange the Jewish working masses from the Jewish people. We are aware of the fact that ‘the object of the Workers Circle is primarily to benefit the members of the organisation. We fully appreciate the enthusiasm of the Jewish workers for Trade Unions and the Labour movements. Yet, the class consciousness of the Jewish worker does not do away with the fact that he is a son of the Jewish people, and that as such he has certain obligations towards the Jewish people. A RN o Y RIS No matter what one’s views on political and economic problems, one cannot justify apathy to one’s own people. This truth is now admitted by large numbers of Jewish workers, with the exception of those who have not freed themselves yet from the assimilationists’ and ¢himerical idea of cosmopolitanism. It is true that in Glasgow there is a Poale Zion branch of the Workers’ Circle, which does a certain amount of Zionist work. Perhaps there are one or two similar branches elsewhere in the country. It seems however that those Zionist branches of the Workers’ Circle are only considered like step-children by the mother organisation. Along with the report in question we also received a report from New York that the Nationl Labour Committee for Palestine in America has collected 400,000 dollars to help the Labour population in Palestine and in addition 200,000 dollars were raised for the Palestine Labour Bank. Contributions for Palestine equal in size could not be expected from the Jewish workers in this country, whose numbers are much less. But some support can and should be given. <ref>Jewish Echo, 14 July 1939.</ref>
+*'''July 1939''' - JEWISH WORKERS & ERETZ YISRAEL We have before us a report of the Jubilee celebration of the first London Branch of the Workers’ Circle, which was established in this country some thirty years ago. It was an impressive function and a number of interesting speeches were delivered, from which a good idea could be formed of the strength and many achievements of this important organisation. Yet we cannot help being disappointed at the complete lack of general Jewish interest betrayed by the speakers. 1t was not by accident that at this respresentative gathering of Jewish workers not a word was mentioned of their heroic colleagues in Eretz Yisrael who put up such a courageous fight for the Jewish homeland, and that no word of protest was uttered against the attempt to frustrate for ever the most cherished Jewish hope for national revival. It was the logical consequence of the lukewarm attitude of the organised Jewish workers in this country towards general Jewish affairs. It betrayed the regrettable influence of the discredited policy of the Bund and the other semiassimilationist movements which have helped so much to estrange the Jewish working masses from the Jewish people. We are aware of the fact that ‘the object of the Workers Circle is primarily to benefit the members of the organisation. We fully appreciate the enthusiasm of the Jewish workers for Trade Unions and the Labour movements. Yet, the class consciousness of the Jewish worker does not do away with the fact that he is a son of the Jewish people, and that as such he has certain obligations towards the Jewish people. A RN o Y RIS No matter what one’s views on political and economic problems, one cannot justify apathy to one’s own people. This truth is now admitted by large numbers of Jewish workers, with the exception of those who have not freed themselves yet from the assimilationists’ and ¢himerical idea of cosmopolitanism. It is true that in Glasgow there is a Poale Zion branch of the Workers’ Circle, which does a certain amount of Zionist work. Perhaps there are one or two similar branches elsewhere in the country. It seems however that those Zionist branches of the Workers’ Circle are only considered like step-children by the mother organisation. Along with the report in question we also received a report from New York that the Nationl Labour Committee for Palestine in America has collected 400,000 dollars to help the Labour population in Palestine and in addition 200,000 dollars were raised for the Palestine Labour Bank. Contributions for Palestine equal in size could not be expected from the Jewish workers in this country, whose numbers are much less. But some support can and should be given. <ref>Jewish Echo, 14 July 1939.</ref>
 ==1940s==

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 ==1940s==
 ===1941===
-:WORKERS’ CIRCLE The Quarterly Meeting of the Glasgow Jewish Workers’ Circle was held recently, Comrade M. Miller, Vice-Chairman, presiding over a good attendance of members. The report for the period under review was presented by the Hon. Treasurer, Comrade M. V. Sragowitz, who indicated that the financial position was satisfactory In the report of the Social Committee, it was intimated that an interesting programme was being arranged for the coming season, but that on account of war conditions, it would not be possible for the educational lectures to take place as in the past. It was further stated that the Club Library continued to be well patronised, interesting new books being added to its shelves regularly. - Members were urged to appeal to their relatives and friends to volunteer to assist in the Glasgow Jewish Emergeney Communal Feeding Centres, where the assistance of a considerable number of ladies was still urgently required. It was intimated that Mr. I Levy, Chairman, and Mr. M. Goodman, Hon. Asst. Secretary, had, owing to pressure of worl found it necessary to resigl from their respective posts These resignations were accep ted with great regret, and cor: dial appreciation conveyed tc Mr. Levy and Mr. Goodmar for the services they had rendered the Circle throughou their association with it. Mr Sclare was appointed Assistan: Secretary, pro tem. At a committee meeting helc on Sunday, 31st August, Com M. Miller, in the chair, a repor: was given by the Treasurer o the Building Committee wh said that the funds iwere in . gratifyingly sound state. It was also reported that th¢ new Comforts Fund for mem hers serving in the Forces chac now heen inaugurated, with 'h purpose of sending parcels t members for the New Year. 4 concert is being arranged ot behalf of the fund, A number of other items wert discussed, following which Mr Levy, one of the Circle de's gates to the Representativi Council, gave a report on th last meeting of that organisa +ion.<ref>Jewish Echo, 5 September 1941.</ref>
+*WORKERS’ CIRCLE The Quarterly Meeting of the Glasgow Jewish Workers’ Circle was held recently, Comrade [[M. Miller]], Vice-Chairman, presiding over a good attendance of members. The report for the period under review was presented by the Hon. Treasurer, Comrade [[M. V. Sragowitz]], who indicated that the financial position was satisfactory In the report of the Social Committee, it was intimated that an interesting programme was being arranged for the coming season, but that on account of war conditions, it would not be possible for the educational lectures to take place as in the past. It was further stated that the Club Library continued to be well patronised, interesting new books being added to its shelves regularly. - Members were urged to appeal to their relatives and friends to volunteer to assist in the [[Glasgow Jewish Emergency Communal Feeding Centres]], where the assistance of a considerable number of ladies was still urgently required. It was intimated that Mr. [[I Levy]], Chairman, and Mr. [[M. Goodman]], Hon. Asst. Secretary, had, owing to pressure of work found it necessary to resign from their respective posts These resignations were accep ted with great regret, and cor: dial appreciation conveyed tc Mr. Levy and [[Mr. Goodman]] for the services they had rendered the Circle throughout their association with it. Mr Sclare was appointed Assistant Secretary, pro tem. At a committee meeting helc on Sunday, 31st August, Com M. Miller, in the chair, a report was given by the Treasurer o the Building Committee wh said that the funds iwere in . gratifyingly sound state. It was also reported that th¢ new Comforts Fund for mem hers serving in the Forces chac now heen inaugurated, with 'h purpose of sending parcels t members for the New Year. 4 concert is being arranged ot behalf of the fund, A number of other items wert discussed, following which Mr Levy, one of the Circle delegates to the [[Glasgow Jewish Representative Council|Representative Council]], gave a report on th last meeting of that organisa +ion.<ref>Jewish Echo, 5 September 1941.</ref>
 ===1943===

← Older revision	Revision as of 15:43, 19 February 2026
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 The [[Glasgow Jewish Workers Circle]] was Branch No 18 of the [[Workers' Circle Friendly Society]].
-A profile in the Echo on the 25th anniversary of the Glasgow Circle in 1937  noted that in 1913-14 “the Circle took a leading part in the ‘establishment of the body that now looks after Jewish affairs in general—the local Jewish Representative Council.’” During the 1914-18 war “Thoughtful of general Jewish problems, the Circle in Glasgow established a Workers’ League for Jewish Emancipation —a body whose purpose was to safeguard the identity of the Jewish people throughout the world.”
+:We can note here the connections to Zionist lobby groups in Scotland such as the [[Glasgow Jewish Representative Council]] and the [[Board of Deputies of British Jews]], the British Zionist lobby group. The connection with the Workers’ Circle is also significant.  This was a grouping including a variety of socialist currents, including Socialist Zionists.  It was not anti-Zionist. In fact as was reported at the time (1936) the circle was part of [[Glasgow Poale Zion|Glasgow’s Poale Zion]] branch, a Zionist organisation. By 1943 any equivocation that there had been was removed when the Glasgow branch voted unanimously to affiliate to the [[World Jewish Congress]] an avowedly Zionist group since it was set up in 1936.<ref>https://www.presstv.ir/Detail/2025/07/19/751459/neighors-inside-tight-knit-caledonian-cousinhood-scottish-zionism</ref>
-In 1933 the Circle was subject to criticism for being insufficiently Zionist from the Jewish Echo edited by Zevi Golombok.  An editorial denounced the group in terms familiar to those used today by the Zionist regime:
+A profile in the Echo on the 25th anniversary of the Glasgow Circle in 1937  noted that in 1913-14 “the Circle took a leading part in the ‘establishment of the body that now looks after Jewish affairs in general—the local Jewish Representative Council.’” During the 1914-18 war “Thoughtful of general Jewish problems, the Circle in Glasgow established a [[Workers’ League for Jewish Emancipation]] —a body whose purpose was to safeguard the identity of the Jewish people throughout the world.”
-Anti-Semitism is not a ‘‘capitalistic’” remedy ‘‘to blind the eyes of the masses.”” It is an age-old sentiment prevalent in the hearts of all gentiles, capitalists and proletarians alike… As Jews, as members of the Jewish people, there is only one solution for us—a Jewish Homeland. This is an axiom, a truth recognised by all true sons and daughters of our people, irrespective of their political or politico-economical creed. It is high time that the leaders of the Workers’ Circle followed suit!
+In 1933 the Circle was subject to criticism for being insufficiently Zionist from the [[Jewish Echo]] edited by [[Zevi Golombok]].  An editorial denounced the group in terms familiar to those used today by the Zionist regime:
-After that broadside the Circle invited Zevi Golombok to come and lecture them, the year after, in 1934, where he discoursed on the theme: “Judaism and Marxist Socialism are incompatible“.
+:Anti-Semitism is not a ‘‘capitalistic’' remedy ‘to blind the eyes of the masses.' It is an age-old sentiment prevalent in the hearts of all gentiles, capitalists and proletarians alike… As Jews, as members of the Jewish people, there is only one solution for us—a Jewish Homeland. This is an axiom, a truth recognised by all true sons and daughters of our people, irrespective of their political or politico-economical creed. It is high time that the leaders of the Workers’ Circle followed suit!
-By the 1940s the movement towards Zionist hegemony was in full flow.  A further broadside from the Jewish Echo laid out Zevi Golombok’s assessment that there were a small number of anti-Zionists still remaining: “We have reason to believe that the majority of the members of the Workers’ Circle of Glasgow are more or less favourably disposed towards the Jewish national movement but we also know that some of them are outspoken anti-Zionists.” (Jewish Echo, 12 February 1943). In October 1943 the branch unanimously agreed to affiliate to the World Jewish Congress, a group founded in 1936 which was Zionist from the outset. In October 1948: “May we point out that a delegate conference held recently of all Workers' Circle Branches, it was decided, that in conjunction with the raising funds for the Histadruth Israel Campaign, there should also be intensive propaganda for the recognition of an ‘Independent State of Israel’ by his Majesty’s Government.” This was written in a letter of protest against the Glasgow Jewish Representative Council which had rejected a call for the organisation to support recognition of the State. So, the left was more supportive of the racist endeavour than organised Jewry more generally.
+After that broadside the Circle invited [[Zevi Golombok]] to come and lecture them, the year after, in 1934, where he discoursed on the theme: “Judaism and Marxist Socialism are incompatible“.
 ==Timeline==
 ===1920s===

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 ===1943===
-:Jewish Workers And Zionism THE members of the Glas; gow branch of the Jewish Workers' Circle are to pe congratulated on their successful meeting | of protest against the German atrocities on Jews.. Although somewhat belated, the resolution passed at the meeting, apart from the weight it adds to the universal condemnation of Nazi-ism and Fascism, is particularly significant by its reference to Palestine as a haven of refuge for the homeless and stateless Jewish masses. We fully appreciate the fact that as a workers’ organisation the Circle should primarily concern itself with the interests of its members and of their comrades among other workers’ organisations. We also appreciate the solidarity shown by the Circle to the various workers’ movements as far as their ideological outlooks are concerned. But we fail to understand the attitude of some of the Jewish workers who are antagonistic to the Zionist movement and to its policy of a -Jewish Natienal Home in Palestine. Despite the utopian-cosmopolitan theories of the extremists, it is now universally recognisedand proved by fact—that there IS no inconsistency between genuine nationalism and class consciousness; i.e., one may be a true son of his people and a good Socialist, or Communist at the same time. Thus we see that the overwhélming majority of the workers’ organisations in this country and in America are enthusiastically defending the Interests of their country and its People “irrespective of their Social outlook, while even the Soviet Bolsheviks readily give their lives in defence of their Motherland.” - : The great nations of the world are engaged in a terrible war, but none of them is facing the Menace of complete exterminaton a 5 are the Jews in the war Waged on them by numberless and ruthless enemies. No people is so hopelessly unequipped and defenceless as is the Jewish people. Zionism is the only radical reply to the sore Jewish problem, and Eretz Yisrael is the only cure for Jewish homelessness and defencelessness. Why should Jewish Socialists not stand by their people in a time of need and sorrow as their non-Jewish comrades stand by their people? ) We said advisedly “Socialists” and not < Workers,” because large numbers of the Jewish workers are doing their duty to the Jewish people.” Witness the powerful [[Glasgow Poale Zion|Poalei Zion Organisation]] and the recent gesture of the Jewish Trade-Unionist Organisations in America in allocating substantial sums for the upbuilding of the Jewish National Home in Palestine. Unfortunately there are still some Jewish extremists who because of their socialism fail to understand their responsibility as Jews., We have reason to believe that the majority of the members of the Workers” Circle of Glasgow are more or less favourably disposed towards the Jewish national movement but we also know that some of them are outspoken anti-Zionists. This is confirmed by the opposition put up by so-called intellectuals against the addendum with reference to Palestine to the resolution submitted to the Workers’ Circle Meeting. Let us hope that the resolution in question is a step forward towards the realisation by all Jewish workers that a good Socialist can also be a good Jew.<ref>Jewish Echo, editorial, 12 February 1943.</ref>
+:Jewish Workers And Zionism THE members of the Glasgow branch of the Jewish Workers' Circle are to pe congratulated on their successful meeting | of protest against the German atrocities on Jews.. Although somewhat belated, the resolution passed at the meeting, apart from the weight it adds to the universal condemnation of Nazi-ism and Fascism, is particularly significant by its reference to Palestine as a haven of refuge for the homeless and stateless Jewish masses. We fully appreciate the fact that as a workers’ organisation the Circle should primarily concern itself with the interests of its members and of their comrades among other workers’ organisations. We also appreciate the solidarity shown by the Circle to the various workers’ movements as far as their ideological outlooks are concerned. But we fail to understand the attitude of some of the Jewish workers who are antagonistic to the Zionist movement and to its policy of a -Jewish Natienal Home in Palestine. Despite the utopian-cosmopolitan theories of the extremists, it is now universally recognised and proved by fact—that there IS no inconsistency between genuine nationalism and class consciousness; i.e., one may be a true son of his people and a good Socialist, or Communist at the same time. Thus we see that the overwhélming majority of the workers’ organisations in this country and in America are enthusiastically defending the Interests of their country and its People “irrespective of their Social outlook, while even the Soviet Bolsheviks readily give their lives in defence of their Motherland.” - : The great nations of the world are engaged in a terrible war, but none of them is facing the Menace of complete exterminaton a 5 are the Jews in the war Waged on them by numberless and ruthless enemies. No people is so hopelessly unequipped and defenceless as is the Jewish people. Zionism is the only radical reply to the sore Jewish problem, and Eretz Yisrael is the only cure for Jewish homelessness and defencelessness. Why should Jewish Socialists not stand by their people in a time of need and sorrow as their non-Jewish comrades stand by their people? ) We said advisedly “Socialists” and not "Workers,” because large numbers of the Jewish workers are doing their duty to the Jewish people.” Witness the powerful [[Glasgow Poale Zion|Poalei Zion Organisation]] and the recent gesture of the Jewish Trade-Unionist Organisations in America in allocating substantial sums for the upbuilding of the Jewish National Home in Palestine. Unfortunately there are still some Jewish extremists who because of their socialism fail to understand their responsibility as Jews., We have reason to believe that the majority of the members of the Workers” Circle of Glasgow are more or less favourably disposed towards the Jewish national movement but we also know that some of them are outspoken anti-Zionists. This is confirmed by the opposition put up by so-called intellectuals against the addendum with reference to Palestine to the resolution submitted to the Workers’ Circle Meeting. Let us hope that the resolution in question is a step forward towards the realisation by all Jewish workers that a good Socialist can also be a good Jew.<ref>Jewish Echo, editorial, 12 February 1943.</ref>
 [[File:Screenshot 2025-10-01 at 09.37.51.png|thumb|right|500px|Back (left to right): Teddy and Larry; front (L. to T.): Lewis, Ray, and Barney. Private (Signaller, First-Class) ]]
-*May 1943 - Five members of one family, who are serving with H.M. Forces, met together for the first time since the outbreak of war, in a reunion recently in Glasgow. They are the four sons and a daughter of Mr, and [[Annie Sragowitz|Mrs.]] [[Alexander Sragowitz]]. They celebrated the Seder together and had a family reunion at the home of the parents, 113, Warwick Street.
+*May 1943 - Five members of [[Sragowitz family|one family]], who are serving with H.M. Forces, met together for the first time since the outbreak of war, in a reunion recently in Glasgow. They are the four sons and a daughter of Mr, and [[Annie Sragowitz|Mrs.]] [[Alexander Sragowitz]]. They celebrated the Seder together and had a family reunion at the home of the parents, 113, Warwick Street.
 **Staff Quartermaster-Sergeant [[Barney Sragowitz]], R.E.M.E., volunteered for service the day after war broke out, joining the R.A.O.C, and later transferring to, his present unit. Thirty years of age, he was a hairdresser in civil life. He is married and has one child.
 **[[Teddy Sragowitz]], Cameron Highlanders, was at Dunkirk, and has since served on both sides of the world. He is a prominent member of the sports section of his battalion, and has won several boxing and running events. He is 23. Before joining the Army he was a sergeant in the [[Glasgow Company of the Jewish Lads' Brigade]], and he was also an active member of the local [[Bar Cochba]]. He is a tailor by trade.

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	:Jewish Workers And Zionism THE members of the Glas; gow branch of the Jewish Workers' Circle are to pe congratulated on their successful meeting \| of protest against the German atrocities on Jews.. Although somewhat belated, the resolution passed at the meeting, apart from the weight it adds to the universal condemnation of Nazi-ism and Fascism, is particularly significant by its reference to Palestine as a haven of refuge for the homeless and stateless Jewish masses. We fully appreciate the fact that as a workers’ organisation the Circle should primarily concern itself with the interests of its members and of their comrades among other workers’ organisations. We also appreciate the solidarity shown by the Circle to the various workers’ movements as far as their ideological outlooks are concerned. But we fail to understand the attitude of some of the Jewish workers who are antagonistic to the Zionist movement and to its policy of a -Jewish Natienal Home in Palestine. Despite the utopian-cosmopolitan theories of the extremists, it is now universally recognisedand proved by fact—that there IS no inconsistency between genuine nationalism and class consciousness; i.e., one may be a true son of his people and a good Socialist, or Communist at the same time. Thus we see that the overwhélming majority of the workers’ organisations in this country and in America are enthusiastically defending the Interests of their country and its People “irrespective of their Social outlook, while even the Soviet Bolsheviks readily give their lives in defence of their Motherland.” - : The great nations of the world are engaged in a terrible war, but none of them is facing the Menace of complete exterminaton a 5 are the Jews in the war Waged on them by numberless and ruthless enemies. No people is so hopelessly unequipped and defenceless as is the Jewish people. Zionism is the only radical reply to the sore Jewish problem, and Eretz Yisrael is the only cure for Jewish homelessness and defencelessness. Why should Jewish Socialists not stand by their people in a time of need and sorrow as their non-Jewish comrades stand by their people? ) We said advisedly “Socialists” and not < Workers,” because large numbers of the Jewish workers are doing their duty to the Jewish people.” Witness the powerful [[Glasgow Poale Zion\|Poalei Zion Organisation]] and the recent gesture of the Jewish Trade-Unionist Organisations in America in allocating substantial sums for the upbuilding of the Jewish National Home in Palestine. Unfortunately there are still some Jewish extremists who because of their socialism fail to understand their responsibility as Jews., We have reason to believe that the majority of the members of the Workers” Circle of Glasgow are more or less favourably disposed towards the Jewish national movement but we also know that some of them are outspoken anti-Zionists. This is confirmed by the opposition put up by so-called intellectuals against the addendum with reference to Palestine to the resolution submitted to the Workers’ Circle Meeting. Let us hope that the resolution in question is a step forward towards the realisation by all Jewish workers that a good Socialist can also be a good Jew.<ref>Jewish Echo, editorial, 12 February 1943.</ref>		:Jewish Workers And Zionism THE members of the Glas; gow branch of the Jewish Workers' Circle are to pe congratulated on their successful meeting \| of protest against the German atrocities on Jews.. Although somewhat belated, the resolution passed at the meeting, apart from the weight it adds to the universal condemnation of Nazi-ism and Fascism, is particularly significant by its reference to Palestine as a haven of refuge for the homeless and stateless Jewish masses. We fully appreciate the fact that as a workers’ organisation the Circle should primarily concern itself with the interests of its members and of their comrades among other workers’ organisations. We also appreciate the solidarity shown by the Circle to the various workers’ movements as far as their ideological outlooks are concerned. But we fail to understand the attitude of some of the Jewish workers who are antagonistic to the Zionist movement and to its policy of a -Jewish Natienal Home in Palestine. Despite the utopian-cosmopolitan theories of the extremists, it is now universally recognisedand proved by fact—that there IS no inconsistency between genuine nationalism and class consciousness; i.e., one may be a true son of his people and a good Socialist, or Communist at the same time. Thus we see that the overwhélming majority of the workers’ organisations in this country and in America are enthusiastically defending the Interests of their country and its People “irrespective of their Social outlook, while even the Soviet Bolsheviks readily give their lives in defence of their Motherland.” - : The great nations of the world are engaged in a terrible war, but none of them is facing the Menace of complete exterminaton a 5 are the Jews in the war Waged on them by numberless and ruthless enemies. No people is so hopelessly unequipped and defenceless as is the Jewish people. Zionism is the only radical reply to the sore Jewish problem, and Eretz Yisrael is the only cure for Jewish homelessness and defencelessness. Why should Jewish Socialists not stand by their people in a time of need and sorrow as their non-Jewish comrades stand by their people? ) We said advisedly “Socialists” and not < Workers,” because large numbers of the Jewish workers are doing their duty to the Jewish people.” Witness the powerful [[Glasgow Poale Zion\|Poalei Zion Organisation]] and the recent gesture of the Jewish Trade-Unionist Organisations in America in allocating substantial sums for the upbuilding of the Jewish National Home in Palestine. Unfortunately there are still some Jewish extremists who because of their socialism fail to understand their responsibility as Jews., We have reason to believe that the majority of the members of the Workers” Circle of Glasgow are more or less favourably disposed towards the Jewish national movement but we also know that some of them are outspoken anti-Zionists. This is confirmed by the opposition put up by so-called intellectuals against the addendum with reference to Palestine to the resolution submitted to the Workers’ Circle Meeting. Let us hope that the resolution in question is a step forward towards the realisation by all Jewish workers that a good Socialist can also be a good Jew.<ref>Jewish Echo, editorial, 12 February 1943.</ref>
		+	[[File:Screenshot 2025-10-01 at 09.37.51.png\|thumb\|right\|500px\|Back (left to right): Teddy and Larry; front (L. to T.): Lewis, Ray, and Barney. Private (Signaller, First-Class) ]]
		+	*May 1943 - Five members of one family, who are serving with H.M. Forces, met together for the first time since the outbreak of war, in a reunion recently in Glasgow. They are the four sons and a daughter of Mr, and [[Annie Sragowitz\|Mrs.]] [[Alexander Sragowitz]]. They celebrated the Seder together and had a family reunion at the home of the parents, 113, Warwick Street.
		+	**Staff Quartermaster-Sergeant [[Barney Sragowitz]], R.E.M.E., volunteered for service the day after war broke out, joining the R.A.O.C, and later transferring to, his present unit. Thirty years of age, he was a hairdresser in civil life. He is married and has one child.
		+	**[[Teddy Sragowitz]], Cameron Highlanders, was at Dunkirk, and has since served on both sides of the world. He is a prominent member of the sports section of his battalion, and has won several boxing and running events. He is 23. Before joining the Army he was a sergeant in the [[Glasgow Company of the Jewish Lads' Brigade]], and he was also an active member of the local [[Bar Cochba]]. He is a tailor by trade.
		+	**Private [[Lewis Sragowitz]] joined the King's Own Scottish Borderers three years ago, but is now in the R.A.O.C. He is 26, married, and was also engaged in tailoring.
		+	**Sapper [[Larry Sragowitz]] joined the Royal Engineers a year ago. He is 32, married, and has one child. In civil life he is a cabinet maker.
		+	**Their sister, [[Ray Sragowitz]], volunteered for the A.T.S. 18 months ago, and she is now attached to a mixed A.A. battery in the South of England which has won distinction for the number of enemy aircraft it has brought down. She was a tailoress before joining up.
		+	**All five were active members of the [[Glasgow Jewish Workers Circle]]. Their brother. Mr. [[Morris Sragowitz (b. 1907)\|Morris Sragowitz]], who is on war work, was its Secretary for several years, and he is at present Convener of the Comforts Fund for members in H.M. Forces, and Assistant Club Secretary.<ref>JC, Page 16/17 for 14-05-1943</ref>

	:WORKERS’ CIRCLE Following upon an address given by Mr. Waterman, member of the London Executive of the Workers’ Circle, the Glasgow Branch (Division 8) unanimously agreed to his recommendations that (1) they affiliate to the Glasgow Branch of the World Jewish Congress and (2) that they levy their members in order to create a fund for the combatting of anti- Semitism, it Mr. I. Kalin, presiding, introduced the speaker, who, in the course of his address, spoke of the aims and functions of Congress, referring in.particular to the importance of its being able to represent- the voice of the Jewish masses. He pointed out that Dr. Barou, one of the Secretaries of the British Section of Congress, was a member of the Workers’ Circle London Executive, while several other members of their Executive were also closely identified with Congress in which they were playing an active part. He also indicated that every branch of the Workers’ Circle throughout England ‘was affiliated to Congress. After some discussion, affiliation was unanimously agreed upon, and it was also decided to appoint representatives to the National Conference, to be held in London on October 24th. Mr. Philip Shapiro, Vice-Chairman of the Glasgow Branch, and Mr. L. Zaidman, of London, were appointed in this connection. Mr. Waterman then dealt with the question of the Circle levying its members in order to establish a strong fund which would be utilised towards the combatting of anti-Semitism by means of lectures, literature, etc. It was unanimously agreed that such a fund be created and a levv placed on every member. <ref>Jewish Echo, 20 October 1943.</ref>		:WORKERS’ CIRCLE Following upon an address given by Mr. Waterman, member of the London Executive of the Workers’ Circle, the Glasgow Branch (Division 8) unanimously agreed to his recommendations that (1) they affiliate to the Glasgow Branch of the World Jewish Congress and (2) that they levy their members in order to create a fund for the combatting of anti- Semitism, it Mr. I. Kalin, presiding, introduced the speaker, who, in the course of his address, spoke of the aims and functions of Congress, referring in.particular to the importance of its being able to represent- the voice of the Jewish masses. He pointed out that Dr. Barou, one of the Secretaries of the British Section of Congress, was a member of the Workers’ Circle London Executive, while several other members of their Executive were also closely identified with Congress in which they were playing an active part. He also indicated that every branch of the Workers’ Circle throughout England ‘was affiliated to Congress. After some discussion, affiliation was unanimously agreed upon, and it was also decided to appoint representatives to the National Conference, to be held in London on October 24th. Mr. Philip Shapiro, Vice-Chairman of the Glasgow Branch, and Mr. L. Zaidman, of London, were appointed in this connection. Mr. Waterman then dealt with the question of the Circle levying its members in order to establish a strong fund which would be utilised towards the combatting of anti-Semitism by means of lectures, literature, etc. It was unanimously agreed that such a fund be created and a levv placed on every member. <ref>Jewish Echo, 20 October 1943.</ref>

@@ Line 21: / Line 21: @@
 ===1930s===
 ====1933====
-:The Workers’ Circle i While much credit is due’to the Jewish Workers’ Circle for their courageous protest against the anti-Jewish persecution and excesses in Central and Eastern Europe, which they adopted at their Convention, held recently in Leeds, the phraseology of that resolution proves that our friends of the Workers’ Circle, if they have not forgotten much, have also not learned much during the last twenty years or soo, as far as the causes of anti-semitism are concerned. Just as in the infancy of the Jewish Socialist movement the resolution speaks of being convinced ‘‘that all forms of race hatred in all countries are due to sinister reactionary forces secking to blind the eyes of the masses so that they should not see that their real enemies are those who keep them enslaved to the capitalist yoke.” Apparently, the leaders of the Circle still cling to the antiquated utopian theory that the Jewish problem will be satisfactorily solved with the solution of the problems of Labour and that anti-semitism is an artificial movement created by the Capitalists as an antidote to the influence of Socialism. ‘But how will the gentlemen of the Workers’ Circle explain the causes of the occasional anti-Jewish outbreaks in the factories of Soviet Russia? Or how will they explain the fact that the Socialists o Czecho-Slovakia ba r Jews from all Government and public employment ? On the other hand, the Hitlerites also condemn the ‘‘reactionary forces of the capitalists’” and yet that does not keep them back from being wild anti-semites. Again, if capitalism and antisemitism are so closely connect~ ed, how is it that anti-semitism has no footing in Great Britain? Or in the ‘‘reactionary’” Fascist Italy ? Even in Germany aggressive anti-Semitism had less sway during her pre-war purely capitalistic regime than at present when the control of the country is more or less under Socialist influence. - Anti-Semitism is not a ‘‘capitalistic’” remedy ‘‘to blind the eyes of the masses.”” It is an age-old sentiment prevalent in the hearts of all gentiles, capitalists and proletarians alike. It is rooted in the Jewish landlessness and homelessness and it is the natural outcome of our Galuth. Probably Poland or Roumania are utilising the anti-Jewish feeling among the masses for their political or sociological purposes, just as this feeling has been exploited in its time by prewar darkest Russia. There is every likelihood that when need be even ‘‘enlightened’’ Soviet Russia would not hesitate to utilise the anti-Jewish sentiment of the masses for the purpose of the “holy”” revolution. =~ No one has artificially created the anti- Semitic sentiment. It is there since the Jewish people are there and it will continue to be as long as the Jewish people will continue to remain in their abnormal position as a people without a land and without a home, The struggle between Capital and Labour only concerns us as individuals. As Jews, as members of the Jewish people, there is only one solution for us—a Jewish Homeland. This is an axiom, a truth recognised by all true sons and daughters of our people, irrespective of their political or politico-economical creed. It is high time that the leaders of the Workers’ Circle followed suit ! <ref>Jewish Echo, 6 January 1933.</ref>
+:'''The Workers’ Circle''' - While much credit is due to the Jewish Workers’ Circle for their courageous protest against the anti-Jewish persecution and excesses in Central and Eastern Europe, which they adopted at their Convention, held recently in Leeds, the phraseology of that resolution proves that our friends of the Workers’ Circle, if they have not forgotten much, have also not learned much during the last twenty years or soo, as far as the causes of anti-semitism are concerned. Just as in the infancy of the Jewish Socialist movement the resolution speaks of being convinced ‘that all forms of race hatred in all countries are due to sinister reactionary forces seeking to blind the eyes of the masses so that they should not see that their real enemies are those who keep them enslaved to the capitalist yoke.' Apparently, the leaders of the Circle still cling to the antiquated utopian theory that the Jewish problem will be satisfactorily solved with the solution of the problems of Labour and that anti-semitism is an artificial movement created by the Capitalists as an antidote to the influence of Socialism. But how will the gentlemen of the Workers’ Circle explain the causes of the occasional anti-Jewish outbreaks in the factories of Soviet Russia? Or how will they explain the fact that the Socialists of Czechoslovakia bar Jews from all Government and public employment? On the other hand, the Hitlerites also condemn the ‘reactionary forces of the capitalists’ and yet that does not keep them back from being wild anti-semites. Again, if capitalism and antisemitism are so closely connected, how is it that anti-semitism has no footing in Great Britain? Or in the ‘‘reactionary’” Fascist Italy ? Even in Germany aggressive anti-Semitism had less sway during her pre-war purely capitalistic regime than at present when the control of the country is more or less under Socialist influence. - Anti-Semitism is not a ‘capitalistic’ remedy ‘‘to blind the eyes of the masses.' It is an age-old sentiment prevalent in the hearts of all gentiles, capitalists and proletarians alike. It is rooted in the Jewish landlessness and homelessness and it is the natural outcome of our Galuth. Probably Poland or Roumania are utilising the anti-Jewish feeling among the masses for their political or sociological purposes, just as this feeling has been exploited in its time by prewar darkest Russia. There is every likelihood that when need be even ‘enlightened’ Soviet Russia would not hesitate to utilise the anti-Jewish sentiment of the masses for the purpose of the “holy”” revolution. =~ No one has artificially created the anti- Semitic sentiment. It is there since the Jewish people are there and it will continue to be as long as the Jewish people will continue to remain in their abnormal position as a people without a land and without a home, The struggle between Capital and Labour only concerns us as individuals. As Jews, as members of the Jewish people, there is only one solution for us—a Jewish Homeland. This is an axiom, a truth recognised by all true sons and daughters of our people, irrespective of their political or politico-economical creed. It is high time that the leaders of the Workers’ Circle followed suit ! <ref>Jewish Echo, 6 January 1933.</ref>
 ====1934====